Slip and falls can occur anywhere and often lead to serious injuries and medical treatment. Whether you are hurt in a grocery store, at work, on a public sidewalk, or at a friend’s house, understanding who pays for your medical bills after your slip and fall is crucial in protecting your rights and ensuring you are fairly compensated. The financial burden of medical bills after an accident can be overwhelming so it is important that you examine all of your legal rights and options. Reach out to an experienced Rockland County slip and fall lawyer to discuss your case today.
Who Pays for Medical Bills After a Slip and Fall?
If you are involved in a slip and fall accident and sustain injuries, the individual responsible for paying your medical bills will vary depending on how the accident happened and who the responsible party was.
In general, your own health insurance will cover your medical expenses like hospital stays, treatments, surgeries, medication, etc. Depending on your policy you may be required to pay some money toward your deductible or for copays but your insurance will typically cover most of your treatments.
However, if another individual or entity was negligent and responsible for the accident, you may be able to pursue compensation through an outsider.
What is Premises Liability?
Premises liability is a legal concept important in many accidents including slip and falls. Through this law, property owners are legally obligated to provide visitors and guests with a reasonably safe environment free from hazards. If the slip and fall happens on someone else’s property due to the owner’s negligence, the property owner’s insurance can cover the cost of medical bills.
This will only apply if the property owner neglected to maintain their property or fix a known issue like a leak, loose floorboards, etc. Homeowners and business owners generally have liability insurance that can cover an injured party’s medical costs.
If the property owner does not have insurance or their policy does not cover the entirety of your costs, you can file a personal injury lawsuit against the individual in pursuit of damages for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
What if I Am Injured at Work?
If the slip and fall occurs while you are at work, workers’ compensation may cover your medical bills. Workers’ compensation is a form of insurance that certain employers are required to carry. If an employee is injured on the job or due to the tasks required of their role, workers’ comp can cover the worker’s medical expenses and lost wages.
The individual or entity who is required to pay for medical bills after a slip and fall depends on the circumstances surrounding the accident. Understanding all of your legal options after an injury is crucial in ensuring you can be properly cared for and compensated. Reach out to an experienced attorney today for more information and legal advice.
